Some items, like jewelry, electronics and computers, may have a separate coverage limit or may need to be covered by a special policy

Any claim filed for your child’s loss will go on your record, and keep in mind there is a higher risk of theft at colleges

Some homeowners policies don’t cover students who live off campus

What about renters insurance?

If you want to provide your student at college with full coverage for the same types of losses covered by your homeowners policy, the best option is for the student to purchase renters insurance in his name. We can help you decide if your child needs such coverage.

The average cost of renters insurance is between $15 and $30 a month, according to the Ohio Department of Insurance.

What to know about health insurance

Don’t assume that the college’s clinic or hospitals and urgent care centers near campus are covered by your health policy. Check with your provider.

If a parent co-signed on private student loans, the parent is still responsible for that debt in the event the unthinkable happens. You could owe thousands of dollars. An inexpensive term-life insurance policy would cover that cost.